Damen and Germany in ongoing talks over future of F126 frigate project
Industry
November 17, 2025, by Fatima Bahtić
Dutch shipbuilding major Damen Shipyards Group has continued constructive discussions with Germany on the progress of the F126 frigate project, the company revealed in its 2024 annual report.
Damen said ongoing talks about the future of the German Navy’s F126 frigate program are examining whether primary responsibility for the project could be shifted to German stakeholders, while the Dutch shipbuilder would remain a key industrial partner.
The discussions, which are expected to continue for several more months, also prompted a reassessment of earlier financial support plans. According to the company, the Dutch government’s proposal to provide a temporary €270 million bridge loan is no longer needed. Damen said it “greatly appreciates” the government’s willingness to offer the support, even though the measure will not move forward.
Working closely with the Dutch Ministry of Defense, Damen said it now plans to place a stronger focus on the fleet-renewal programs of the Royal Netherlands Navy and the Belgian Navy, which it described as critical to strengthening naval readiness in both countries
https://www.navaltoday.com/2025/11/17/damen-and-germany-in-ongoing-talks-over-future-of-f126-frigate-project/
